Lot 377
Ringling, John (1866-1936). Circus impresario. The best known of the seven Ringling Brothers, John was the influential force in acquiring both the Barnum & Bailey Circus, as well as the American Circus Corporation, truly making the family's business the "Greatest Show on Earth".
Document Signed ("John Ringling"). Partially printed, accomplished in manuscript. Two pages, recto and verso, oblong quarto, n.p., January 25, 1915. Being an artist's contract. In black ink. One vertical and three horizontal folds, soiling along folds, ink has smeared in two small areas at center edge, toning. In very good to fine condition overall.
Ringling lends his signature to this binding agreement -- a contract hiring an acrobatic contortion act known as the "Four Melillo Sisters" which consisted of "four ladies, assisted by one gentleman". As a condition of this agreement, the Ringling Brothers agreed "to pay the ARTIST the sum of one hundred & seventy five dollars, payable weekly for each week's work performed". A week's work however, consisted of a full twelve performances.
Estimated Value $400 - 450.
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